46 2. Describing and Mapping Land In this module, we will discuss: Three means of describing real estate Types of maps available to land-use professionals and how to read them

47 Metes and Bounds Oldest means of describing real estate in the U.S. Used in original 13 colony states Presented in running prose style Landmarks and features mentioned in the description may relocate or no longer exist Least accurate method of describing real estate

48 Lot and Block Used to describe parcels, usually city lots, within a large tract Based on a plat map Municipalities usually base real estate taxes on the lot and block system and assign tax identification numbers (TINs) or tax parcel numbers based on it

49 Rectangular Survey Used in states that lie west of original colonies Symmetrical and orderly Principal meridian is a true north- south line Adjustments must be made for earth’s curvature

50 Topographic Map Shows the contours and elevation of the land Contour lines and symbols are drawn to show natural features

51 Aerial Maps Bird’s eye view of the land Provide a “stop action” viewpoint, when looking at land-use progression environmental and wildlife habitat preservation or degradation

52 Location Maps Street and highway maps

53 Plat Maps Plan for a tract of land, such as a township or a subdivision Plat maps are drawn to: Designate roads Assure access to property Create easements Establish/assure compliance with zoning, regulations, and lot size Plan access to public utilities, water, and sewer hookups

54 Soil Surveys Not a type of map, but include detailed soil maps Show the presence and distribution of types of soils

55 Soil Capability Classes Land Suited to Cultivation and Other Uses Class ISoils reflect the most desirable soil properties with few restrictions on use. Class IISoils have limitations that require special management practices. Class IIISoils exhibit severe permanent limitations or frequent hazards that restrict choices of crops and may require special management practices. Class IVSoils are, at best, marginally suited to cultivation. Land Limited in Use—Generally Not Suited to Cultivation Class V Soils have fewer erosion hazards than class IV soils but normally are subject to other shortcomings. Class VI Soils have similar restrictions to class IV soils but the hazards are more pronounced. Class VII Soils have limitations similar to class VI. Class VIII Soils cannot be used for any traditional agricultural purpose.

56 Soil Texture Triangle

57 Flood Maps Developed by FEMA for flood plain management and insurance purposes Risk areas are rated high risk A, moderate to low B or C, coastal V, or undetermined D. Can be obtained through the FEMA Map Service Center at

58 Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Computer-based tools for mapping and geographically analyzing objects and demographic patterns